If you’re in the mood for some delicious Indo-Nepalese cuisine, look no further than the restaurant I recently visited. This little gem offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the menu is filled with a variety of dishes to please even the pickiest of eaters.
I was especially impressed with the butter chicken, which was perfectly cooked and had a rich, creamy sauce that was bursting with flavor. The tender chicken was the perfect contrast to the savoury sauce, and I found myself wanting to savour every last bite. The lamb korma was equally impressive, with tender and juicy pieces of lamb in a creamy sauce that was infused with a delicate blend of spices. Another standout dish was the palak paneer, which was a creamy and delicious spinach and cheese dish that was not only visually appealing, but also had a perfect balance of flavors.
For those who like a bit of spice in their food, the veg jhol momo was a real treat. The steamed dumplings were filled with a delicious and spicy vegetable filling, and the sauce that accompanied the dish was a perfect balance of heat and flavor. I especially appreciated the care that was taken to ensure that the filling was not too dry, and that the dumplings were perfectly cooked. Heaps of flavour.
The restaurant itself is quite charming, with traditional décor and a warm and cozy ambiance. When we arrived it was almost closing time and the chef took our order, let us eat inside and stay as long as we wanted (a while, because the kids were with us). Inside, Mela Eatery is quite small, with not many tables available, but this makes it cosy and inviting on cold days. The service was prompt and efficient, and I never felt like I was waiting an unreasonable amount of time for my food. Finding Mela was pretty easy and because it’s located on George Street, north of The Octagon we were easily able to catch the bus to get there.
Pricing
While the food itself and the dining experience were both excellent, it’s worth noting that Mela Eatery is not the cheapest food available. For the four of us (two adults and two kids) our cost for birthday lunch was $82, but we all eat more than the average and it was definitely worth it.
Summary
I would highly recommend this Indo-Nepalese restaurant to anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re in the mood for some spicy veg jhol momo, or you’re more in the mood for some rich and creamy butter chicken, this restaurant has something to please everyone. So if you’re looking for a great place to eat, be sure to give this little gem a try – you won’t be disappointed!